Tammy Lathrop

Regulation 7.4.4: All staff, with the exception of substitutes, shall complete fifteen (15) clock hours of annual professional development activities as required in the rule 7.4.2 of these regulations.

“As discussed at the time of this visit, the registrant and the assistant did not have evidence of fifteen (15) clock hours of annual professional development activities reflected in each of their BFIS Credential accounts. When asked, evidence of completed annual professional development activities was not shown. Corrective Action: Complete and maintain fifteen (15) hours of professional development activities. Trainings can be found at: https://northernlightsccv.org/training/training-calendar/ Status: Appeal Period.”

Regulation 7.1.2.2: The FCCP shall ensure that at least one (1) responsible adult who has successfully completed and is currently certified in pediatric first aid and infant and child CPR is on the premises at all times children are present.

“As discussed at the time of this visit, the registrant and the assistant did not have evidence of current certification in pediatric first aid and infant + child CPR reflected in their BFIS Credential acct and when asked, did not show proof of current certifications. Corrective Action: Complete and maintain certification in pediatric first aid and infant + child CPR. Training can be found at: https://northernlightsccv.org/training/first-aid-cpr/ Status: Appeal Period.”

Regulation 3.2.2: The FCCP, staff, and partner staff working with children are mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect pursuant to 33 V.S.A. S4913 and are required to report to the Child Abuse Hotline when they reasonably suspect abuse or neglect of a child. This report must be made within twenty-four (24) hours of the time information regarding the suspected abuse or neglect was first received or observed.

“As discussed at the time of this visit, the assistant does not have the required Protecting Vermont's Children mandated reporter training in their BFIS Credential account and when the registrant was asked, did not show proof of the assistance's completion of this required training. Corrective Action: Complete the Protecting Vermont's Children Reporting Abuse and Neglect trhttps://northernlightsccv.org/training/childcare-trainings/aining as found here: Status: Appeal Period.”

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“As discussed at the time of this visit, attendance had not been recorded consistently for each child daily, to include the time of arrival and departure. When asked, the registrant concurred. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: As of now, maintain written attendance for each child as they arrive and depart each day and save attendance records for twelve (12) months. Email this licensor the plan by due date 3/31/26 of how attendance will be maintained in compliance. Status: Appeal Period.”

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“The attendance records for 12/02 and 12/03/24 and up till 1pm on 12/04/24 do not list attendance for any of the children noted to be in care. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: Beginning now and going forth, ensure daily attendance is maintained up to date for each child present in care. By 12/23/2024 Email Licensor [name] Purinton of the plan to ensure attendance is maintained in compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Jun 24, 2025

Regulation 3.6.1.1: The FCCP shall develop and maintain a written Emergency Response Plan to respond to a full range of emergencies both natural and man-made. A complete plan shall include how the FCCP will address and manage the following situations and responsibilities: * Evacuations or other emergencies such as leaving the premises and lockdown situations; * Specific concerns related to the location of the program, such as proximity to a nuclear reactor, an area prone to flooding or power loss; * Notifying the local authorities of the emergency; * A system for notifying the parents of the emergency; * Notifying the local emergency planning committee regarding the location of the FCCH and using the committee as a resource in emergency planning for the program; * A system of identifying the children and staff present at the time of the emergency and maintaining knowledge of their whereabouts; * A system for handling infants, toddlers, and children with special needs; * An established evacuation meeting location within walking distance of the FCCH; * A system to account for all children and staff at evacuation meeting place; * An process for relocation if necessary including safe transportation; * A system for sheltering in place if the FCCP and children present need to remain in the FCCH for an extended period; and * Staff chain of command and individual staff roles and responsibilities, (if applicable) during emergencies.

“When asked, the Provider showed a Code Blue Training booklet, as the Emergency Response Plan which did not include all required components of the rule. Corrective Action: It is required to develop and maintain a written Emergency Response Plan to include all aspects contained within the rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 6.1.4.1.1: Toys, materials and equipment shall be varied and available in a quantity that allows all children to benefit from their use, allows a range of choices, and reduces conflicts between children.

“At this visit, three children did not play and sat next to or were held by the Provider, Assistant, or Household member. When asked, the Provider said the the majority of toys had been brought outside to be disinfected about a month ago and were still outside. There were no toys, materials, or play equipment visible for children to assess in the main area where the program operates . The provider said the children are provided art and craft activities. The Provider's own two children were given paper with crayons and an electronical devise. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023 and going forth provide toys, materials, and equipment to all children to benefit from their use. Develop and Submit to this licensor a program improvement plan to ensure toys, materials and equipment will be available, varied and in a quantity that allows all children to benefit from their use now and going forth.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“When asked, the Provider did not find the attendance documentation and acknowledged that daily attendance had not been kept regularly. This is a repeat violation cited three times before. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023 and going forth, record daily attendance for each child with all components outlined within the rule. By 02/09/24, Develop and submit to this licensor, a program improvement plan that includes a system that ensures attendance will be taken each day as outlined in the rule and is available for review going forth.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 5.10.2.1.3: The kitchen and all food preparation, storage and serving areas, and utensils shall be kept clean, sanitary, and free of insects, rodents, dust and other contaminants.

“The counters in the kitchen were cluttered with clean and dirty dishes, paperwork,food and other debris. The sink was full of dirty dishes. The Provider agreed this rule is in violation. This is a repeat violation cited three times before. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, maintain the the kitchen and areas outlined in the rule as clean and sanitized. Develop and submit to this licensor a Program Improvement Plan that describes the ongoing steps that will be taken to ensure kitchen counters are free of clutter, clean and sanitized going forth.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 5.10.1.2.5: There shall be at least one (1) easily accessible dry chemical fire extinguisher which has at least a 2-A: 10BC classification. This fire extinguisher shall be maintained in operating condition. It shall bear an official tag, properly signed, attesting to current operating condition.

“The fire extinguisher mounted on the end of a kitchen cabinet near the sliding glass doors, was not able to be physically accessed by the this Licensor or the Provider due to the approximate depth of 5 feet of items stored in front of the extinguisher. The Provider said the fire extinguisher was newly purchased and could not find the store receipt. This violation has been cited twice before. Corrective Action: Ensure the fire extinguisher is maintained in operating condition to bear an official tag, or keep the store receipt as proof of purchase in the last 365 days, which is to be physically available for assessment by the Licensor.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 3.3.1: The FCCP shall keep all required records, schedules, materials and equipment used to operate and maintain the FCCH in good order and in locations appropriate for day to day access.

“The records, schedules, materials, and equipment to operate the program were not in good working order for day to day access. The required items were either missing, incomplete or inaccessable in order for the Licensor to assess Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, ensure all required records, schedules, materials, and equipment are in good order in locations for day to day access. Develop and submit to this licensor, a Program Improvement Plan outlining the steps to establishing and maintaining systems to maintain compliance to the rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 5.10.4.2: Exits: Stairways, hallways, windows, and doors from the rooms used by children shall be clear and unobstructed from stored items, non-movable barriers, toys, and other items at all times.

“The hallway from the kitchen to the second exit was blocked. The door leading to outdoors had items stacked approximately 3 feet high in front of it. The Provider said that the pile of boxes and packages blocking the exit are recently purchased Christmas gifts. This is a repeat violation cited twice before. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, ensure exits, hallways, windows and door;s used by children are cleared. Develop and submit a program improvement plan to remove items from the hallway, and in front of the second exit door, ensuring they are clear to be unobstructed now and going forth.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 5.10.4.5.4: In areas where care and education is provided floors shall be kept clean. * Uncarpeted floors shall be swept daily, and * Carpeted floors shall be vacuumed weekly.

“The living room, dining room, kitchen, and hallway floors had build up of dirt and particles. These areas are used by children. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, clean all floors where care is provided and maitain going forward. Develop and submit a program improvement plan of a schedule to ensure floors are kept clean, to include being swept and vacuumed going forth as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 2.3.1.5: The FCCP shall not interfere with, impede, deter, provide false information or cause another to do any of the aforementioned, or in any manner hinder the Department or its agent(s) in an investigation or inspection.

“Upon arrival to the front door, this Licensor heard children's voices and foot steps inside the home. This Licensor knocked at the front door three separate times, rang the door bell two separate times, and while waiting, attempted to call the program as the Provider opened the door. The Provider said she was closed due to two of her own school-aged children being sick. When asked, the Provider said there were no other children in care. When asked, the Provider led this Licensor throughout the rooms of the main floor and the basement. The bedroom in the basement was locked and when opened, the Assistant and a Household Member were alone with the three children at the program this day. Corrective Action: When operating a State Registered Family Child Care Home, the Provider is required to not impede the Division from visiting during operating hours and must allow a visit by the Child Development Division to occur.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2023

Regulation 7.1.3: Orientation of FCCP and New Staff The FCCP shall complete an orientation training session approved by the Division prior to beginning care for children. The FCCP shall ensure staff complete an orientation training session approved by the Division prior to being left alone with children. Trainees shall complete the orientation training within one (1) month of their first date of working with children. The orientation training session shall include: * Basic knowledge of child growth and development; * Routine and emergency health protection of children including health related exclusions; * Safety and sanitation requirements including handling and storage of hazardous materials and disposal of bio contaminants; * Positive behavior management; * Supervision of children; * Child accident and injury procedures including building and physical premises safety; * Safe sleep practices; * Administration of medication requirements; * Emergency and evacuation requirements; * Nutrition and food safety including prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; * Recordkeeping; * Transportation and child passenger safety; * Release of children; * Respectful engagement of families; * Preventing, recognizing, and reporting child abuse and neglect, including information about the signs and symptoms of sexual abuse, sexual violence, grooming processes, recognizing the dangers of child sexual abuse, and other predatory behaviors of sex offenders; * Recognition of and response to the symptoms of common childhood illnesses; * Preventing the spread of infectious disease; * Providing developmentally appropriate activities and experiences for children; * Inclusion of children with special needs; * Guidelines for volunteers, trainees, and partner staff; * Responsibility to comply with current applicable licensing regulations; * Background check requirements to include changes in situations, restrictions, and exceptions for those prohibited by these regulations; * Staffing requirements to include opening and closing; and * Ensuring children have extra clothes and diapers available.

“The Assistant working with children has a start date working in the program of 01/30/2023 and has not completed the VT Orientation Training as required by the rule. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, prior to being left alone with children, ensure that the Assistant completes the Vermont Orientation training and submits the training certificate to Northern Lights with the Northern Lights cover sheet, including this licensor in the email.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 3.3.6.1: The FCCP shall maintain a record of the date of each evacuation drill as required in the rules in section 3.6.2 of these regulations that includes the number of children, staff evacuated, time taken to evacuate, and notation of the drill conducted while children were sleeping or resting. Evacuation records shall be kept for two (2) years.

“The evacuation drill log reflected the months from Jan-Sept 2023 and the months of Oct and Nov 2023 were not recorded. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, It is required to record the date of each evacuation drill each month as required in the rule section 3.6.2 going forth.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 7.2.4: The FCCP shall ensure that no person shall be left alone with children without approval from the Division which shall be based on the results of the background check to include fingerprinting.

“Upon arrival, the person identified as the Assistant staff person, had not completed a fingerprint supported background clearance was alone working with the three children in basement. The Assistant has been working at the program for more than six months. Also, a Household Member (15 yo) was in the basement with the children and the Assistant. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: As of 12/06/2023, immediately ensure that the Assistant, the Household Member or no individual is left alone with children until the program receives notification from the Division that the Assistant has completed a fingerprint supported background clearance.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 9, 2024

Regulation 7.2.2: The FCCP shall submit a Records Check Authorization form to the Division for any new individuals, sixteen (16) years of age or older, residing in the FCCH or present more than five (5) times in 365 days during the FCCH's hours of operation as required in the rule 2.3.7.2 of these regulations.

“After reviewing the associated parties list, it was noted that a family member had turned 18 yo and is currently working in the program as an assistant which both require submitting a Records Check Authorization form. Corrective Action: Submit a completed Records Check Authorization for family member/staff member to the LOD Email at ahs.dcfcddchildcarelicensing@vermont.gov”

Correction date in the state record: Jan 30, 2023

Regulation 2.3.8.6: The FCCP shall maintain on site evidence of continuous insurance as defined in the rule 2.3.7.6 of these regulations.

“When asked, the provider could not provide evidence of insurance coverage. The provider said that proof of insurance could be sent to this licensor by the end of the day which was not received. Corrective Action: Ensure maintainance of on site evidence of continuous insurance and send a copy of the Declaration Page to show active coverage dates to this licensor.”

Correction date in the state record: Mar 21, 2023

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“The daily attendance sheets were reviewed as incomplete for periods of time and for many days since 9/26/21. Corrective Action: Starting now, ensure each child is signed in and signed out each day at the time of arrival and departure in the program. Send an email to this licensor stating compliance to this rule is met and will be maintained ongoing.”

Correction date in the state record: Jan 24, 2023

Regulation 5.4.1.1: The FCCP shall ensure that each child, except school age children, has an individual crib, port-a-crib, cot, mat, or bed that is safe for the child's age and development, in good repair, and used by only one child each day. No child shall nap directly on the floor or on furniture not designed for sleeping. Cribs or port-a-cribs shall be used for children under the age of twelve (12) months. Children shall not nap in cribs or port-a-cribs if they are physically able to climb out unassisted.

“A 5 year old child at nap time was resting on the hall floor with no nap mat and a 7 year old child at naptime was asleep on the couch. No child shall nap directly on the floor or on furniture not designated for sleeping. Corrective Action: Ensure that sleeping children over age 12 months nap on a cot, mat, or bed. Send an email to this licensor confirming understanding and agreement.”

Correction date in the state record: Nov 21, 2022

Regulation 2.3.10.4: The FCCP shall be responsible for compliance with these rules and shall operate the FCCH at all times within the terms and conditions of the license.

“The FCCH regulations definition 2.2.4 in part states that a Child is a person who is at least six weeks old. When asked, the provider stated that care had started for a three week old child occasionally in the evenings for past two weeks. The child's date of birth was confirmed to be under six weeks of age at the time of care. It is prohibited to care for a child under age six weeks old. Corrective Action: Ensure that a child in care at anytime is at least six weeks old. Send an email to this licensor as proof of understanding and agreement.”

Correction date in the state record: Nov 21, 2022

Regulation 5.10.2.1.3: The kitchen and all food preparation, storage and serving areas, and utensils shall be kept clean, sanitary, and free of insects, rodents, dust and other contaminants.

“The kitchen countertops and/or sink had paper, cleaning products, food, soiled dishes, and craft items on the entire surfaces. This is a repeat violation. Corrective Action: Ensure the kitchen/sink preparation, storage and serving areas are kept clean and sanitary as required by this rule. Send an email to this licensor describing the plan per rule 5.2.6 to ensure that these areas are cleaned, sanitized and/or disinfected.”

Correction date in the state record: Nov 21, 2022

Regulation 5.10.4.2: Exits: Stairways, hallways, windows, and doors from the rooms used by children shall be clear and unobstructed from stored items, non-movable barriers, toys, and other items at all times.

“Provider stated that the second exit is a door that leads to the basement. It was explained that care is on the ground floor and the exits must exit the ground floor. Three doors exit to the outside, 2 of those exits were blocked. One was blocked by boxes and piles of linens, the other was blocked by a table, chairs and was covered by a curtain. The only easily accessible way out of the home was through the front door. This is a repeat violation from 02/17/2021 Corrective Action: The basement stairway shall not be used as a second exit. Tell this licensor where the second exit will be located. Make sure that the exit is not blocked by boxes,clothing, toys or any other item that would create an obstacle. Provide this licensor with a picture of the second exit.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.10.2.1.3: The kitchen and all food preparation, storage and serving areas, and utensils shall be kept clean, sanitary, and free of insects, rodents, dust and other contaminants.

“The counters in the kitchen were cluttered with clean and dirty dishes, paperwork,food and other debris. The sink was full of dirty dishes. This is a repeat violation 02/09/2012 and 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: Create and submit a program improvement plan that describes the steps that will be taken to ensure kitchen counters are clean and free of clutter.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.2.6.6: The following items shall be Disinfected at the end of each day: * Door handles; * Hand washing sinks and faucets; * Countertops; * Toilets and toilet learning equipment; * Diaper pails; and * Drinking fountains.

“The bathroom floor and toilet were dirty and contained built up grime, dirt and hair.There was built up grime and discoloration in the toilet bowl.Three practice potties were present, two of them were full of urine. All three practice pottties had dirt and grime build up. This is a repeat violation 02/09/2012 and 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: Create and submit a program improvement plan that includes a schedule for cleaning of surfaces in the bathroom.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 3.3.6.1: The FCCP shall maintain a record of the date of each evacuation drill as required in the rules in section 3.6.2 of these regulations that includes the number of children, staff evacuated, time taken to evacuate, and notation of the drill conducted while children were sleeping or resting. Evacuation records shall be kept for two (2) years.

“Evacuation drills were not completed for May,June or July of 2021. This is a repeat violation cited on 02/17/2021 Corrective Action: Evacuation drills shall be practiced and recorded at least once a month. This is a repeat violation create and submit to this licensor, a program improvement plan that highlights the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with this regulation.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.10.4.5.4: In areas where care and education is provided floors shall be kept clean. * Uncarpeted floors shall be swept daily, and * Carpeted floors shall be vacuumed weekly.

“The living room, dining room, kitchen, hallway, and bathroom floors contained built up grime,dirt, food bits and other small debris. The carpet under the table where children eat contained dried pasta, a dirty plate with fork stuck to it and dirty water bottles. In the living room multiple goldfish crackers were scattered about, a child was seen picking one up and handing it to the provider. This is a repeat violation 02/09/2012 and 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: Create and submit to this licensor a program improvement plan that includes a daily cleaning schedule.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.2.3.6: The FCCP shall ensure that used disposable diapers are placed in a leak proof bag or container that is washable and has a firmly fitting cover.

“A diaper pail with lid was present. A used pull up was on the bathroom floor and one was on the kitchen floor. During this visit and the visit on 02/17/2021 provider stated that her own children take their pull ups off and throw them on the floor.This is a repeat violation cited on 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: Provider will ensure that all diapers and pull ups are disposed of in accordance with this regulation. Provider will check the bathroom after her children use it to ensure pull ups are not left on the floor. This is a repeat violation, provider will create a program improvement plan that highlights how she will ensure compliance with this regulation.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.10.1.2.5: There shall be at least one (1) easily accessible dry chemical fire extinguisher which has at least a 2-A: 10BC classification. This fire extinguisher shall be maintained in operating condition. It shall bear an official tag, properly signed, attesting to current operating condition.

“The fire extingusher that was mounted in the kitchen was last inspected in 2016. On the counter in a box sat an extinguisher that the provider stated was brand new. This extiguisher was also in a box on the counter during the 02/17/2021 visit. During that visit provider stated she did not have a receipt for it. When asked about it during this visit she stated she had not found the receipt and had not had the extinguisher inspected and stated she could not find someone to inspect it. Corrective Action: Either have the extinguisher inspected or purchase a new extinguisher and keep the receipt for it. Provider was asked to mount the extiguisher that was in the box and remove the extinguisher that has not been inspected since 2016. Provide this licensor a picture of either a new extinguisher with receipt or an extinguisher with a valid inspection tag.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.4.1.8: Bedding used by a child shall be stored in a manner that prevents contact with bedding used by other children.

“Provider was asked to show where the children's nap bedding is stored.Provider pointed out empty bins in their cubbies and stated she washes bedding on Wednesdays. Today was Friday and she stated the blankets were in the laundry. There were piles of linens on the floor and the washer was empty. In the corner the cots were stacked, the cots had sheets on them and multiple types of blankets and bedding materials were piled up. In an email dated 03/16/2021 provider stated that bedding is kept in individual bags in a storage closet. This was not observed during todays visit. This is a repeat violation from 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: Bedding shall be stored in a manner that meets the requirements of this regulation. Provide this licensor a picture of bedding as it will be stored prior to and after nap.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.11.6.5: If more than one (1) child in care has bottles, all bottles shall be individually labeled with the infant's name and refrigerated immediately after preparation by the FCCP and/or staff or upon arrival if prepared by a parent.

“Bottles were not labelled. One child finished a bottle and it was placed on a counter, it still contained milk, it sat there until this licensor asked about it. Another child in care also uses bottles which were not labelled. Corrective Action: Bottles shall be labelled and left over contents disposed of or returned to the refrigerator..”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“Upon arrival provider was asked how many childen are in care, she needed to count heads to determine. I asked the provider for the attendance sheet and the provider stated she was not sure where it was. Later in the visit she was again asked if she could locate it, she stated she thinks her daughter may have it. Attendance for the day of the visit and for previous weeks was not available. This is a repeat violation cited on 03/26/2012,07/26/2012, 02/25/2021. Corrective Action: Attendance shall be recorded everyday and the sheet shall be available on site. This is a repeat violation, create and submit to this licensor, a program improvement plan that highlights the steps that will be taken to ensure compliance with this regulation.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.1.2: General Health Examinations: Within forty-five (45) days of enrollment the FCCP shall obtain documentation of the child's age appropriate well care exam from the parent. Documentation shall include information regarding any health conditions and medications that may impact the care of the child.

“Reviewed 5 children's files, none of them had documentation related to a well health exam. This is a repeat violation and was cited on 02/17/2021. Corrective Action: On 04/01/2021 you stated in an email that you have asked parents for the well health check forms. Provide this licensor with documentation describing when and how you have requested the well check documentation. This documentation must be collected as part of enrollment, communicate with this licensor how you plan to come into and stay in compliance with this regulation.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 2.3.8.3: The FCCP shall ensure that the FCCP; all individuals residing in the home; staff; and any individuals who are left alone with children have met ongoing background check requirements by submitting at least once every five (5) years a Records Check Authorization form to the Division and as required shall submit to fingerprinting.

“Provider A has not completed fingerprinting as required. Provider A had a fingerprint authorization form generated on 06/12/2018 and 08/13/2020. Provider A confirmed via email sent to Licensor [name] on 02/23/2021 that the Sheriff's office was unable to locate documentation that she had completed fingerprinting with them. Corrective Action: Provider A shall complete fingerprinting by 03/08/2021.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.1.2.5: There shall be at least one (1) easily accessible dry chemical fire extinguisher which has at least a 2-A: 10BC classification. This fire extinguisher shall be maintained in operating condition. It shall bear an official tag, properly signed, attesting to current operating condition.

“The extinguisher on site was not current, or bearing an official tag. Provider A stated that she had purchased a new extinguisher which was in the box on the kitchen counter. Provider A was asked to provide a receipt to show proof of the date the extinguisher was purchased, but was unable to do so. Corrective Action: Ensure that a valid extinguisher is on site at all times. Develop a system to ensure ongoing compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.11.1.3: The FCCP shall ensure that menus are planned in advance, dated, and posted so that they are clearly visible to parents. Any changes to the posted menu shall be noted. Menus of meals and snacks for the preceding six (6) weeks shall be kept on file.

“Provider A was asked to provide her menus, but was unable to do so. Provider A stated that her current menu is usually posted on her white board, but one was not posted at the time of the visit. Corrective Action: Ensure menus are planned, posted and maintained as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 3.3.3: The FCCP shall establish a system for taking attendance, including documentation of the time when each child arrives and departs each day he/she attends the FCCH. The FCCP shall save all daily attendance records identifying the hours of children s attendance for at least twelve (12) months from the date that care is provided.

“When asked, Provider A was unable to locate any attendance records, to include the current week. Corrective Action: Ensure daily attendance is documented, and maintained on site as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.1.2: General Health Examinations: Within forty-five (45) days of enrollment the FCCP shall obtain documentation of the child's age appropriate well care exam from the parent. Documentation shall include information regarding any health conditions and medications that may impact the care of the child.

“Upon review of five (5) children's files, none of them had a well exam. Provider A indicated she didn't realize that this was required. Corrective Action: Ensure all children's files contain an annual health exam as required by this rule. Develop a system to ensure ongoing compliance with this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Aug 24, 2021

Regulation 5.2.6.6: The following items shall be Disinfected at the end of each day: * Door handles; * Hand washing sinks and faucets; * Countertops; * Toilets and toilet learning equipment; * Diaper pails; and * Drinking fountains.

“The bathroom toilet had dust and grime around the base, and a visible film coating portions of the toilet bowl. The bathroom garbage bucket was overflowing on to the floor with pull ups, tissues, and paper items. The countertop in the bathroom had dust, hair, and white substance around the sink and faucet. The kitchen counter had dust, grime and particles of paper and food on them. Corrective Action: Ensure that items are disinfected at the end of each day as required by this rule. Develop a system to ensure ongoing compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.4.5.1: The FCCP shall ensure that the FCCH, its furnishings, and toys are kept in a clean and orderly condition.

“The couch cusions had three (3) large tears approximately each twenty-two (22) inches long. Children were observed sitting on the couch during the visit. The interior of the refrigerator had brown substances on the inside. The toilet paper holder was found with substantial rust. Corrective Action: Repair or replace the couch cushions. Ensure the refrigerator is cleaned and maintained. Develop a system to monitor and ensure ongoing compliance to this rule. Discontinue use of the toilet paper holder.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 3.3.7.3: Within six (6) months of initial date of employment, the FCCP and all staff shall maintain an up-to-date BFIS Quality and Credential Account. Documentation, verification of qualifications, and all annual professional development activities as specified in the rules sections 7.3 and 7.4 of these regulations shall be submitted to NLCDC to be verified and maintained in BFIS.

“Upon review of staff BFIS quality and credential accounts, they were found to be incomplete. Provider A and Provider B did not have documentation of their First Aid/CPR certification, education documents to confirm qualifications, and annual professional development certificates. Provider B did not have her Protecting Vermont's Children: Reporting Abuse & Neglect certificate in her account. Corrective Action: Ensure all required documentation is submitted to Northern Lights. Develop a system to ensure monitoring and ongoing compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 3.3.6.1: The FCCP shall maintain a record of the date of each evacuation drill as required in the rules in section 3.6.2 of these regulations that includes the number of children, staff evacuated, time taken to evacuate, and notation of the drill conducted while children were sleeping or resting. Evacuation records shall be kept for two (2) years.

“When asked, Provider A was unable to locate the fire drill records. Corrective Action: Ensure fire drills are documented and maintained as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.4.2: Exits: Stairways, hallways, windows, and doors from the rooms used by children shall be clear and unobstructed from stored items, non-movable barriers, toys, and other items at all times.

“The hallway from the kitchen to the second exit was blocked with clothing, boxes, toys, a slide, jugs, and bags. The door leading to outdoors had items stacked two (2) feet high in front of it. Corrective Action: Remove items from the hallway, and in front of the second exit door, ensuring they are clear and unobstructed. Ensure that ongoing compliance to this rule is met.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.1.10.3: All poisonous or toxic materials shall be inaccessible to children.

“Under the bathroom sink, toilet bowl cleaner, toothpaste, and lotion were stored. The cabinet above the toilet had lotions, diaper cream, soap and shampoo. Both cabinets had safety locks but they were not latched. During the visit, children had access to the bathroom without adult supervision. Corrective Action: Ensure all toxic or poisonous items are stored in a manner to ensure children do not have access to those items. Develop a system to ensure ongoing compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Dec 4, 2024

Regulation 5.10.2.1.3: The kitchen and all food preparation, storage and serving areas, and utensils shall be kept clean, sanitary, and free of insects, rodents, dust and other contaminants.

“The kitchen countertops had paper, cleaning products, food, soiled dishes, and craft items on the entire surface. Provider A stated that items placed in the dish strainer are placed there to dry. The dish strainer was observed to have dirt, and yellow and black substances on the base. Corrective Action: Ensure the kitcen preparation, storage and serving areas are kept clean and sanitary as required by this rule. Develop a system to ensure that these areas are cleaned, sanitized and/or disinfected per rule 5.2.6”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.4.1.8: Bedding used by a child shall be stored in a manner that prevents contact with bedding used by other children.

“Provider A stated she provides the bedding for children and stores the bedding in the closet. Provider A showed the storage area, which was a brown box with all the linens stored together. When asked, Provider A stated that she washes the bedding once a week. Corrective Action: Ensure all bedding is stored in a manner that prevents contact with bedding used by other children.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.1.11.1: The FCCP shall ensure that the use of tobacco and tobacco substitutes (including e-cigarettes), alcohol and illegal drugs is prohibited at the FCCH (both indoor and outdoor environments used by children) when children are present and also in any vehicle used to transport children for program purposes.

“Upon arrival at the program, a household member was observed smoking on the front porch, which is the main entrance to the house. Corrective Action: Discontinue the use of prohibited items as outlined by this rule when children in care are present.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 7.1.3: Orientation of FCCP and New Staff The FCCP shall complete an orientation training session approved by the Division prior to beginning care for children. The FCCP shall ensure staff complete an orientation training session approved by the Division prior to being left alone with children. Trainees shall complete the orientation training within one (1) month of their first date of working with children. The orientation training session shall include: * Basic knowledge of child growth and development; * Routine and emergency health protection of children including health related exclusions; * Safety and sanitation requirements including handling and storage of hazardous materials and disposal of bio contaminants; * Positive behavior management; * Supervision of children; * Child accident and injury procedures including building and physical premises safety; * Safe sleep practices; * Administration of medication requirements; * Emergency and evacuation requirements; * Nutrition and food safety including prevention of and response to emergencies due to food and allergic reactions; * Recordkeeping; * Transportation and child passenger safety; * Release of children; * Respectful engagement of families; * Preventing, recognizing, and reporting child abuse and neglect, including information about the signs and symptoms of sexual abuse, sexual violence, grooming processes, recognizing the dangers of child sexual abuse, and other predatory behaviors of sex offenders; * Recognition of and response to the symptoms of common childhood illnesses; * Preventing the spread of infectious disease; * Providing developmentally appropriate activities and experiences for children; * Inclusion of children with special needs; * Guidelines for volunteers, trainees, and partner staff; * Responsibility to comply with current applicable licensing regulations; * Background check requirements to include changes in situations, restrictions, and exceptions for those prohibited by these regulations; * Staffing requirements to include opening and closing; and * Ensuring children have extra clothes and diapers available.

“Upon review of staff BFIS Quality and Credential accounts, and upon request to see documentation on site, it was determined that Provider A and Provider B did not complete Orientation training. Provider A was advised if she found documentation to submit this to Licensor [name] by 02/23/2021. Provider A stated in an email on 02/23/2021 that she was unable to find documentation of this training being completed. Corrective Action: Ensure all staff required to complete the Orientation training, to include the Protecting Vermont's Chilren: Reporting Abuse & Neglect training do so. Develop a system to ensure ongoing compliance to this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Feb 23, 2021

Regulation 5.10.4.5.4: In areas where care and education is provided floors shall be kept clean. * Uncarpeted floors shall be swept daily, and * Carpeted floors shall be vacuumed weekly.

“The living room, dining room, kitchen, hallway, and bathroom floors had build up of dirt, hair, grime, particles of paper, and clothing. Children in care were observed in each of these areas, to include lying on the surfaces in the dining room and living room. Corrective Action: Develop a schedule to ensure floors are kept clean, to include being swept and vacummed as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.2.3.6: The FCCP shall ensure that used disposable diapers are placed in a leak proof bag or container that is washable and has a firmly fitting cover.

“Observations in the bathroom, found loose pull-ups in an open garbage bucket. Corrective Action: Ensure all diapers and pull ups are contained as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.2.3.2: All food shall be stored in containers that are dated. Food items used by or intended for specific children shall be plainly labeled.

“Upon review of the refrigerator, there were several items not labeled and/or dated, to include a container with white liquid, tin foil in a ball shape, two (2) white take out containers. Corrective Action: Ensure all food items are stored in containers that are dated. Develop a system to ensure that ongoing compliace to this rule is maintained.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 6.1.4.4.5: Screen time shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes daily per child or group of children except for school age children using technology to complete homework assignments, and a once per month two (2) hour movie.

“During the one (1) hour and thirty (30) minute visit, children were in the living room watching television. Two (2) female children were observed using hand held electronic devices in the same room while the television was on. Provider A acknowledged that the children had been watching television prior to my arrival, which was over the limit allowed. Corrective Action: Develop a system to ensure that screen time is limited as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Jun 26, 2025

Regulation 7.2.2: The FCCP shall submit a Records Check Authorization form to the Division for any new individuals, sixteen (16) years of age or older, residing in the FCCH or present more than five (5) times in 365 days during the FCCH's hours of operation as required in the rule 2.3.7.2 of these regulations.

“After reviewing the programs associated parties list, Provider A was asked if there were any additional household members, staff, or other individuals that are present during hours of operation. Provider A stated that Partner Staff A and B have been at the house one (1) time a week for the past three (3) years. Corrective Action: Partner Staff A and B shall submit a record check authorization form to the Division upon their next visit to the program. Ensure record check authorization forms are submitted to the Division as required by this rule to maintain ongoing compliance.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 7.4.4: All staff, with the exception of substitutes, shall complete fifteen (15) clock hours of annual professional development activities as required in the rule 7.4.2 of these regulations.

“Upon review of staff BFIS Quality and Credential accounts, on-site documentation, and documentation sent to Licensor [name] post visit, it was determined that Provider A and Provider B did not complete the required fifteen (15) hours of professional development. Provider A completed ten (10) hours between 08/14/2019-08/13/2020, and Provider B did not complete any hours. Corrective Action: Provider A shall complete five (5) additional hours, in addition to the yearly fifteen (15) hours required between 08/14/2020-08/13/2021. Provider B shall complete fifteen (15) additional hours in additional to the regular fifteen (15) hours required between 08/18/2020-08/17/2021. Develop a system to ensure ongoing annual professional development is met. Develop a plan on how Provider A and Provider B will meet these requirements.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021

Regulation 5.10.1.2.6: The extinguisher shall be visibly mounted to the wall near an exit door.

“Provider A confirmed that the only mounted extinguisher was the one (1) mounted on the end of a kitchen cabinet, which is not near an exit as required by this rule. Provider A stated she needed to move the extinguisher but hadn't yet. Corrective Action: Ensure a valid extinguisher is mounted to the wall near an exit door as required by this rule.”

Correction date in the state record: Apr 1, 2021